SengSo 4x4 Pentahedron

SengSo 4x4 Pentahedron

SengSo 4x4 Pentahedron is a four-layer shape-shifting puzzle from ShengShou. SengSo is the brand under which this manufacturer sells its puzzles. It isn't cube-shaped. It's a five-faced solid that turns around five axes, so even when solved it looks completely different from a regular 4x4 cube. The Pentahedron series comes in 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-layer versions. The 4x4 version is one of the harder ones in the series.

How to solve it

You solve the Pentahedron in a similar way to cuboids. It helps to know the basic methods for cuboid puzzles, especially the corner swap algorithm. The number of layers is even, so you can run into parity here, which doesn't happen on the 3- and 5-layer versions. There is no official, ready-made step-by-step method. Some solvers say the unusual shape confuses their sense of left and right at first. So be ready to be quite patient on your first solve.

Mechanism and feel in the hand

The puzzle has no magnets. According to user reviews, it turns smoothly, much like the 3-layer Pentahedron. However, the mechanism isn't designed for fast turning. If the layers aren't aligned precisely and you turn too aggressively, popping can occur. It's better to turn calmly and keep the layers aligned. The puzzle is stickerless in the Stickerless Bright version, which means the colours are in the plastic and there are no stickers to wear off.

Who is it for?

For anyone who can already solve a 4x4 cube and knows the basics of cuboids, and now wants to try something less obvious. It's also a good fit for collectors of non-WCA puzzles. If you're just getting started with shapes other than cubes, you can begin with the 3-layer Pentahedron. It's simpler because it has no parity, and many techniques carry over to the 4x4 version later. For a child's first puzzle, a classic 3x3 model is a better choice.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: ShengShou (SengSo brand)
• Type: shape-shifting puzzle, 4 layers, 5 axes of rotation
• Magnets: none
• Colour version: Stickerless Bright